Deptford Fire Companies Offer Unique, Fun-Filled October Events

Deptford, NJ – Two Deptford Fire Companies – Oak Valley and Tacoma – will open their stations to the public with fall-fantastic events chock-full with fun activities and great giveaways for the kids, and the opportunity for adults to learn about fire safety as well as chat with volunteer firefighters about their unique experience and the many benefits of volunteering. Oak Valley Fire Company’s Trunk or Treat will take place on Saturday, October 9 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m., located at 595 Princeton Blvd., Wenonah, NJ. Tacoma Fire Company’s Open House will be held Saturday, October 23 from noon – 5:00 p.m., located at 768 Tacoma Blvd, Westville, NJ.

Kids of all ages, and their families, are invited to Oak Valley’s spooktacular Trunk or Treat! Dress in costumes and join firefighters from Deptford Fire Department’s companies and neighboring fire companies for candy and photos, and to hop aboard firetrucks and handle equipment. This Halloween-themed event is also an opportunity for adults to learn crucial National Fire Prevention Month tips and to casually connect with Volunteer Firefighters and Junior Volunteers to ask questions about the outstanding – and much needed – volunteer opportunities. Learn more about how you can make a difference in your community, and your life at Oak Valley’s Truck or Treat.

Tacoma Fire Chief Rick Thomas commented on their upcoming 5-hour Open House, packed with something for everyone: “The volunteer firefighters are looking forward to an extra special community event for kids and families. We’ll have a rock-climbing wall, Mister Softee ice cream and of course, our trucks will be out for everyone to explore. Our volunteer firefighters also like taking photos with the kids and letting them handle some of our hoses and equipment.”

A volunteer firefighter recruitment table will also be set up where interested community members can engage with firefighters to learn about the scope of their volunteer work fighting fires, responding to emergencies, and protecting the community. Junior Volunteers, ages 16-18, will be on site to share their experience in assisting full-fledged firefighters at emergency calls, fulfilling community service hours, as well as the opportunity to earn up to $2400 in college credit reimbursement. Volunteers will also answer questions about the training program and equipment – at no cost to volunteers.

“There’s no better time than now to volunteer,” added Chief Thomas. “Our volunteers are looking forward to talking about all the benefits including the camaraderie, the life skills they learn that extends to their professions, and the call to duty to serve others. We hope that interested volunteers, as young as 16, come on by.”

For history buffs, the Tacoma Fire Company will have fascinating historical information about the origin and history of Deptford firefighting including photos. There will also be important take-away info to share on easy steps to protect your family and home, tying in with National Fire Prevention Month’s theme: “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety.”

For information about National Fire Prevention Month focused on “Learn the Sounds of Fire Safety,” go to: https://www.nfpa.org/Events/Events/Fire-Prevention-Week/About

Can’t wait to find out more about volunteer firefighter opportunities? Check out Deptford Fire Department’s website at https://deptfordfd.org/